The Udupi district police have initiated a high-level departmental inquiry following serious allegations made by a woman against police personnel. The controversy stems from an attempt to arrest an accused in a decade-old road accident case, which has now sparked community protests and political intervention.
Court Order and Arrest Attempt Lead to Confrontation
The incident has its roots in a road accident case from 2014. On December 9, a court passed an order directing the accused, identified as Ashiq, to deposit Rs 20 lakh along with interest. As the accused failed to comply with the court's directive, the court issued a warrant for his arrest.
The court ordered the Malpe police station to arrest Ashiq and produce him before the PCJ & CJM court in Udupi on or before Wednesday. Acting on this warrant, a police team from Malpe police station visited the accused's residence in Brahmavar.
Allegations of Obstruction and Police Misconduct
During the arrest attempt, two women at the residence allegedly obstructed the police from performing their official duties. Following this altercation, a case was registered at the Brahmavar police station.
In the aftermath, one of the affected women levied specific allegations of misconduct against the police personnel involved. These allegations have become the center of the growing controversy.
Community Outcry and Official Response
Over the past two days, the incident has drawn significant attention. Organizations from the Billava community, elected representatives, women's organization leaders, and various political party leaders have raised doubts and expressed concerns about the police's actions.
In response to the escalating situation, Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar announced a series of decisive steps. He stated that the ongoing investigation has been temporarily halted. Furthermore, the case has been transferred from Brahmavar police station and will be entrusted to a suitable investigating officer.
Most significantly, a departmental inquiry will be conducted by senior officers to probe the allegations made by the woman against the police personnel. SP Shankar affirmed that if any lapses are found, disciplinary action will be initiated against those responsible.
Political Intervention and Call for Calm
Earlier on the same day, MLA Yashpal Suvarna intervened, urging the SP to look into the case seriously and take appropriate action. The SP emphasized that the decisions were taken in the interest of ensuring justice and urged the public not to harbor any confusion or suspicion regarding the matter.
This move aims to address the community's grievances transparently while ensuring a fair investigation into both the original case and the conduct of the police during the arrest operation.
